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Do you ever feel like you spend more time talking to your pets than you do speaking to actual human beings? You're not alone.

New research has revealed that nearly half of all dog owners (41 per cent) talk to their pet more than they do with partner, while a further 40 per cent said they were more likely to share secrets with their pet than anyone else.

The bond between you and your pet can be as strong as between people

Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation

The study, from tails.com, found that on average owners spend around 47 minutes to talk to their dog each day. 81 per cent said they felt happier after having a chat with their pet, and a further 65 per cent went so far as to call their dog their best friend in the world.

86 per cent of owners said their dog is always there for them when they need someone while 94 per cent said their dog never fails to cheer them up when they're feeling down.

Is your dog your best friend?Credit:
Alamy

Additionally, nearly every owner questioned (96 per cent) said they see their dog as part of the family and not "just a pet."

While Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation said that caring for a pet can improve a person's wellbeing: "The bond between you and your pet can be as strong as between people."